Question

What are the benefits and disadvantages of adopting either the teleological or dentological approach to ethical decision making in the business context?

Answer 1

Both teleological & dentological approach have their own advantages and disadvantages –

Teleological Approach

This approach basically deals with a thought of implementing a business decision to meet objectives of the business. The objectives may relate to the well being of employees and society or it may be earning profits for stakeholders. Thus the approach basically deals with the ramifications of a business decision and accepts its righteousness only if serves the intended purpose.    

Advantages –

1) Decision under this approach may benefit people at large

2) Decision under this approach creates goodwill and brand value for a business

Disadvantages –

1) Decision under this approach may benefit certain groups leading to cartel formation

2) Decision under this approach may sometimes affect ethical role play in business

Dentological Approach

This approach basically deals with a thought of implementing a business decision which supplements righteousness. This method leaves little scope for its repercussions on business objectives to affect the decision making as the decision itself was promoted with a correct approach. Therefore the ramifications of such decisions hold no margin to bring a change in original decision making.

Advantages –

1) Decision under this approach promotes integrity & ethics in people and business.

2) It brings all businesses to level playing field as decisions are promoted with righteousness.

Disadvantages –

1) Decision under this approach may not benefit people at large under some cases.

2) Decision under this approach may not create goodwill and brand value for a business under some cases.